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Defence
MEDIA RELEASE

An Australian soldier has died whilst on patrol in the Solomon Islands, the Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Peter Leahy, said today.

Minister for Defence Robert Hill joined with General Leahy in expressing his condolences to the soldier’s family, friends and work-mates.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the soldier’s family and friends at this difficult time. We are working to provide all possible support to them." Lieutenant General Leahy said.

Senator Hill said this tragic incident is a reminder of the dangers that Australian men and women face in the service to the nation. Senator Hill praised the important contribution all the Australian Defence Force members of RAMSI have made.

The soldier was part of a patrol providing security to Police Officers from the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) when he died.

Full details of the incident are not available at this time, however it appears that the soldier died from injuries he received after falling into a deep shaft in an area east of Honiara.

He was pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene of the accident.

The soldier, from the Sydney-based 3^rd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR), had been serving in the Solomon Islands since late January.

The Army has informed the soldier’s next of kin.

As with any accident of this nature a full investigation will now be held.

There are approximately 70 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel deployed in support of RAMSI with the mission to assist the Solomon Islands' Government restore law and order.

Defence Media Liaison (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664

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Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999
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